Summer is coming, and in Tasmania the hot days can creep up on you. It's not too early to start thinking about getting ready. (Read our blog on getting bushfire ready.)
But today, we want to talk to you about keeping cool in extreme heat
Tasmanians are very familiar with the best ways to keep warm during the cold winter months. However, increasingly our summers can include extreme heat events which can have major impacts on our health.
The Tamanian Department of Health has developed a range of resources to help us stay well during extreme heat. Search for ‘Extreme Heat and ‘Department of Health Tasmania’ on your internet browser to see all their information. The key points are below.
Who is at risk during extreme heat?
Anyone can become unwell or even die from heatstroke during extremely hot weather but there are some people who are at higher risk:
- Older people, especially if they are frail
- Pregnant women, babies, and young children
- People living on their own, especially if they are isolated
- People who work outdoors
- People with a physical disability
- People with serious chronic health conditions
- People who take medications that impact sweating and/or body temperature
- People who are already unwell with a high body temperature (e.g. have a fever)
Top tips for preparing for and managing extreme heat
- Drink plenty of water, even if you aren't feeling thirsty.
- Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing in light colours.
- Keep out of the sun as much as possible. If you need to go outside, try to avoid the hottest part of the day, wear sun-safe clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and even use an umbrella for shade.
- Use fans and air conditioning if it is available.
- Close blinds and curtains to keep the sun out but open doors and windows if there is a breeze and you don't have air conditioning.
- Use a spray bottle with cool water and mist it on your face and body.
- Use a wet face-washer or towel on your neck and head or fill a container with cold water and put your feet in it.
- Have a lukewarm shower or bath.
- Eat cool foods like fruit from the fridge or icy poles.
Check in on anyone in your life who might be vulnerable
As a community we can help each other by keeping in regular contact with relatives or friends who are at higher risk to make sure they are managing well during periods of extreme heat. It can be as simple as a call or text message to check in.